Zoomark Bologna
Published on
16/01/17
Latest news
EPO welcomes Belgian federations Ani-Zoo & Andibel as a new full member
EPO welcomes today the joint application of Ani-Zoo & Andibel (Belgium) as a full member, further strengthening its representation across Europe and reinforcing its commitment to a responsible pet sector in line with its Charter. Representing more than 200 members and approximately 80% of Belgian professional breeders, Ani-Zoo and Andibel play a key role in promoting responsible practices and engaging with policymakers and stakeholders at national level. Together, the sector they represent generates an estimated €3.5 billion annually. “More and more issues that have a direct impact on our sector in Belgium are being discussed and decided at the European level. Over the past few years, EPO has developed a strong and respected voice in Brussels, thanks to its expertise and consistent commitment. With our membership, we want to support this positive dynamic, particularly regarding issues of great importance to pet breeders and sellers, especially on topics that are just as important for the industry as for the trade," stated the President of the board of both associations, Mr. Paul De Cooman, explaining the associations’ reasons for joining EPO. Welcoming the new member, EPO President Svein A. Fosså stated: “The addition of Ani-Zoo and Andibel as a joint full member brings valuable experience and a strong national mandate into our work at EU level. At a time when regulation is expanding rapidly, it is essential that our sector remains engaged, constructive, and firmly rooted in practical reality.” The expertise of Ani-Zoo and Andibel is expected to support ongoing efforts to advance best practices within the pet sector, particularly as the EU moves towards adopting its first rules on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats.
13/04/26
EPO Endorses REPTA Deleterious Gene Policy
EPO is pleased to announce its endorsement of the Reptile & Exotic Pet Trade Association (REPTA, United Kingdom) Deleterious Gene Policy, The policy represents an important step forward in addressing animal welfare concerns linked to the selective breeding of reptiles. The REPTA Deleterious Gene Policy focuses on genetic traits—commonly referred to as “deleterious genes”—that are known to cause significant health and welfare issues in reptiles. These may include neurological, structural, metabolic, or other disorders that can severely impact an animal’s quality of life and longevity. By endorsing this policy, EPO supports a science-based and responsible approach to reptile breeding that prioritizes animal welfare. The policy calls on breeders, traders, and other stakeholders to: Refrain from producing, selling, or acquiring reptile morphs associated with serious welfare concerns Promote transparency across the supply chain, including clear communication with buyers Improve consumer awareness and education on the welfare implications of certain genetic traits Maintain and regularly review a list of morphs with demonstrated harmful effects EPO recognises the REPTA Deleterious Gene Policy as a valuable industry-led initiative that contributes to improving standards and fostering responsible practices within the reptile sector. This endorsement reflects EPO’s continued commitment to promoting high standards of animal welfare across all companion animal sectors, including reptiles. Further Information The full REPTA Deleterious Gene Policy is available here:
17/03/26
EPO at the Green Week
Following the EPO Board Meeting held on January 19th, 2026 in Berlin, EPO Board Members and the Secretary General attended Green Week Berlin alongside ZZF. The event provided a valuable opportunity to engage directly with key stakeholders from the pet sector and policymakers on important sustainability topics, including the recent changes to the EU Deforestation Regulation. Exchanges took place with stakeholders such as Alois Rainer, German Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture; Dieter Stier, Member of the Deutscher Bundestag and its Committee on Agriculture; as well as representatives of the Bundesverband Praktizierender Tierärzte (BPT), among others. These discussions highlighted the value of constructive dialogue between decision-makers and the pet sector, both at national and European level, in order to support sustainable, science-based, and well-balanced policymaking.
06/02/26
First Board Meeting of the Year
On January 19th, 2026, EPO Board met in Berlin to review progress and prepare for the year ahead. Discussions focused on continuing strengthening the organisation’ secretariat and ongoing activities. Board members exchanged on key EU affairs priorities as well as upcoming events, outreach, and membership activities, while reviewing the 2025 final budget and 2026 draft budget. The meeting reaffirmed EPO’s commitment to effective EU engagement by strengthening EPO as the voice of the pet sector at European level. A special thanks to ZZF and its team for hosting the meeting at its Berlin office.
06/02/26